Guardiola returning to Etihad for first time since City guilty verdict

Guardiola back at the Etihad

Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is set to return to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. He is expected to watch the Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain from the stands.

This will be the first time the 55 year old has returned to the club's home ground since he decided to quit as manager at the end of last season. The timing of his return is highly significant for the fans and the club. It comes directly after a major development off the pitch.

Support after guilty verdict

Guardiola's return follows the news that Manchester City have been found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules. These financial breaches occurred between 2009 and 2018. Guardiola became the manager of City in 2016 and won 20 trophies during his 10 year spell at the club.

Following the publication of the independent commission's findings, Guardiola released a statement showing his support. He posted on social media to reassure the fans. He wrote that he wants every single Manchester City fan across the world to know he is here more than ever. He stated that he has always been and always will be behind the club, the owner, the chairman, Ferran Soriano, the players, the staff, Enzo Maresca, and the supporters. He added that they will get through this together.

Meanwhile, Manchester City have maintained their innocence throughout the entire process. The club has already filed a formal appeal against the decision. Both chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak and CEO Ferran Soriano have publicly insisted that the club will eventually be cleared of the charges. Before this European game, City must first travel to play Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.